Best On Hiking Shoes of 2026: Which Model Should You Buy?

On's Amazon listings have no feature bullets, and its own site loads specs by script, so these boxes stick to listing titles and attribute tables.

1. Best Overall: On Cloudrock Mid Waterproof

On mens Cloudrock Mid Waterproof

• Protection: waterproof (title)
• Height: mid, ankle-high
• Insole: EVA
• Listed weight: 430 g

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Why it made the list: The Cloudrock is On's dedicated hiking line, and the Mid Waterproof adds ankle coverage and weather protection for trails where a low shoe falls short. It is highly rated by buyers, with dozens of ratings, the best score among On's hiking models we found. The listed weight is light for a waterproof mid. One colorway was listed well below On's usual pricing when we checked, so the price may change.

Highlights:

• Highest-rated On hiking model we found
• Waterproof with mid-height coverage
• Light for a waterproof mid, per the listing

Trade-off:

• The listing shares few technical details

Best for: Hikers who want On's feel in a real waterproof hiking mid.

2. Best Budget (Under $150): On Cloudultra 2

On Mens Cloudultra 2

• Type: cushioned trail running shoe
• Uses: hiking and running (listing)
• Weather: not water resistant

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Why it made the list: On does not sell any hiking or trail shoe near $50, so we raised this award to under $150. The Cloudultra 2 is a cushioned trail shoe that the listing tags for both hiking and running, and it is highly rated by buyers, with hundreds of ratings. Because our Overall pick was listed lower when we checked, this budget pick costs a little more; it is here as the next credible On model at the lowest price we found after that listing.

Highlights:

• Strong rating pool for an On trail shoe
• Cushioned for long days
• Light, breathable trail-shoe build

Trade-off:

• Not waterproof and low-cut, so it is best on dry trails

Best for: Hikers who like a trail-runner feel on long, dry days.

3. Best Premium / Upgrade Pick: On Cloudrock Low Waterproof

On Mens Cloudrock Low Waterproof

• Protection: waterproof
• Grip: slip resistant (listing)
• Features: cushioned, flexible, lightweight (listing)
• Insole: EVA

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Why it made the list: The Cloudrock Low Waterproof takes On's hiking line into a low-cut shoe with a waterproof build, which suits fast hikes, travel and wet commutes. It is the highest-priced of our picks on Amazon right now and is highly rated by buyers, with only a few ratings. Pick it over the Mid if you prefer freedom at the ankle.

Highlights:

• Waterproof in a low-cut hiking shoe
• Listed as slip resistant and flexible
• Works for trail and travel

Trade-off:

• Costs more than the Mid in today's listings, with less ankle coverage

Best for: Hikers who want a waterproof On shoe without a mid collar.

We did not test these shoes hands-on. We focused on the newest generation of each On hiking and trail line we could find new on Amazon US, then compared listing attributes (waterproofing, height, insole, weight), star ratings with rating volume, and price. Older versions with a newer model on Amazon, such as the first Cloudhorizon and Cloudsurfer Trail, were left out.

Type

• Waterproof: a membrane keeps water out; see our best waterproof hiking shoes.
• Lightweight: On's trail runners feel lighter than classic hiking shoes.
• Wide: check size options on each listing; not every On model comes in wide.
• Zero drop: heel and forefoot level; On listings do not state drop, so check On's spec page.
• Vegan: synthetic uppers suit many vegan buyers; confirm materials with On.
• Breathable: non-waterproof mesh models dry faster in summer.
• Gore Tex: On uses its own waterproof builds on several models; check the listing name.

Fit & sizing tips

Fit varies between On models, so try them with hiking socks, leave room at the toes for descents and make sure your heel does not slip.

Waterproof vs breathable

Waterproof On models like the Cloudrock keep feet dry in rain and dew. Mesh models like the Cloudultra 2 breathe and drain better in heat.

Layering & season

Pair On hikers with merino socks year-round and add low gaiters for sand or scree. For snow, a waterproof mid is the minimum.

Care & durability

Knock out stones caught in the sole pods after each hike. Rinse off mud and air dry away from heat.

How much should you spend?

• Under $50: no new On hiking or trail shoe sells at this price.
• Under $100: occasional sale prices on older On trail models.
• Under $150: some current trail models like the Cloudultra 2, plus occasional deals on hikers. Most On waterproof hikers cost more.

On hiking shoes models compared by purpose:

The Cloudhorizon 2 Waterproof (a solid buyer rating, with only a few ratings) and Cloudsurfer Trail 2 (a strong buyer rating from about 40) are newer models with smaller rating pools. So which On hiking shoes is best? For most hikers, the Cloudrock.

What is the best on hiking shoes?

The Cloudrock Mid Waterproof is our pick for most hikers. It is On's waterproof hiking mid, with an EVA insole and a listed weight of 430 g, and it is highly rated by buyers, with dozens of ratings. That makes it the best-rated On hiking model we found on Amazon.

Is on a good hiking shoes brand?

For day hikes and light trails, yes. On now makes dedicated hiking models, not just running shoes. Are On hiking shoes good for heavy backpacking? They are lighter and softer than traditional boots, so less so. If you have read on hiking shoes reviews, our practical answer stays the same: match the model to your trail.

Which on hiking shoes should I buy?

Buy the Cloudrock Mid Waterproof for wet or rocky day hikes, the Cloudrock Low Waterproof for faster hikes and travel, and the Cloudultra 2 for long, dry trails. Check listings for an On hiking shoes sale, since prices vary a lot by color and size.

How long do hiking shoes last?

No official lifespan figure is published. Hiking shoes wear faster than leather boots because foam compresses and treads wear. On's sole pods can also trap small stones. Life depends on miles, terrain and care; replace them when grip or cushioning fades.

Are expensive hiking shoes worth it?

When the extra money buys waterproofing, better traction or more support, often yes. For dry, easy trails, a well-rated trail runner can do the job for less. Spend more only on features your hikes actually need.

How do you clean hiking shoes?

Remove the laces and insoles, brush off dry mud and pick stones out of the sole. Scrub the upper with a soft brush, cool water and mild soap, then rinse. Stuff with paper and air dry at room temperature, away from heaters.

What is the most reliable brand of hiking shoes?

Merrell, Salomon, KEEN, Hoka and On all sell well-rated hiking shoes. Reliability depends on the model and your fit more than the brand. Check ratings, warranty terms and the return policy on the listing before you buy.

The Cloudrock Mid Waterproof is the best on hiking shoes pick for most hikers. The Cloudultra 2 is the lower-priced choice for dry trails, and the Cloudrock Low Waterproof is the low-cut waterproof upgrade. Check price on Amazon for each. For other brands, see our best hiking shoes guide plus our best hiking shoes for men and best hiking shoes for women picks, and compare the best on hiking shoes 2026 options by fit first.